ARI Summer Archaeologist

Spend your summer with ARI by advancing your career in archaeology!

The ARI Summer Archaeologist position is a three-month, paid, position for motivated students seeking additional preparation for anthropology-oriented undergrad or graduate programs and/or careers.

Job Title: Summer Archaeologist

Job Description: The Summer Archaeologist’s (SA) primary responsibilities are to help ARI staff educate the public and assist in archaeological fieldwork and research. Summer Archaeologists will work closely with the Public Archaeologists, Archaeology Coordinator, and Director of Public Archaeology. They will shadow ARI staff to learn the fine points of fieldwork, laboratory management, and public programming and outreach.

The position will consist of a combination of public interpretation, fieldwork, and lab work. ARI is dedicated to public archaeology, and the SA will be required to act as an ambassador of the organization to the public.

Why apply for the ARI Summer Archaeologist Position?

• Gaining on-site training and experience is a strong step toward a career in archaeology/anthropology.
• The program offers practical hands-on experience and the opportunity to grow your skills and resume.
• Our program is also designed to benefit individuals who are seeking a career change or advancement in a career that values archaeology-related knowledge and public communication skills.
• Participants will receive special consideration if they choose to apply for a Public Archaeologist (PA) position at the end of their term.

By the end of the program a participant will be able to:

• Engage the public through outreach or educational opportunities
• Conduct fieldwork including archaeological survey and excavation
• Process, stabilize, and analyze artifacts
• Include practical archaeological experience on their resume

What is the Program Length?

Three months (May-August), full time. Applicants that have already earned their Bachelor’s Degree or have extensive prior experience will have the opportunity to apply for a Public Archaeologist position at the end of that period.

What are the Benefits?

• Career and Educational Advising
• Archaeological Experience and Skill Building
• Exposure to Current Research in Archaeology
• Connections with Professional Archaeologists from the Midwest
• Certifications
• Networking Opportunities
• Optional Camping Accommodations for Housing
• Living stipends
• Education awards

What are the Requirements?

• Preferred: have completed an archaeological field school
• Need an archeology field school? Apply & Enroll in the ARI Field School this summer!
• Preferred: have a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited University
• Be available to work Tuesday- Saturday
• Pass Federal and State background check
• Strong people skills
• Passion for bringing the past to life and encouraging the public to become stewards of the past
• Special consideration will be given to applicants with an interest in public archaeology and archaeological programming
• Archaeological field work is physical labor, which requires a certain level of physical fitness; applicants must be able to work in adverse weather, stand or sit for long periods of time, walk over uneven terrain, and lift heavy objects (Accommodations may be possible for individuals with disabilities. Please contact us to discuss your particular circumstances.)

Duties and Tasks:

• 30% Field Work: The SA will be expected to assist in ARI excavations, including shovel tests, unit and feature excavation, and surface collection.
• 25% Lab Work: The SA will be expected to assist in the cleaning, sorting, and analysis of artifacts at the ARI Base Camp.
• 20% Public Interpretation: The SA will be expected to assist with tours, educational activities, and public volunteers.
• 15% Program Management: Day-to-day management of, and participation in, ARI Archaeological Programming of all types and sizes.
• 10% Outreach/Program Development: Assist in the creation of content for ARI’s website, programs, pamphlets, educational signage in the center, and at excavation sites.